I'm now a fully certified air traffic controller

Well, tonight was huge for me. I unexpectedly received a certification check ride on radar tonight, and got my endorsement from the supervisor. That means I am now certified to work every control position at TOL without having a trainer plugged in with me. It also means a big raise and job security.

In my opinion, this is the most momentous occasion of my life so far. Bigger than high school graduation, bigger than college graduation. Downright huge. I was in training for two years, and full facility certification is a long, arduous task that is definitely no guarantee...in fact, many controller trainees "wash out" throughout the FAA. The excitement of the moment is tempered somewhat by the responsibility that I now have, but I'm sure in time I will get much more comfortable with everything than now rests on my shoulders.